The Congress of African Economists (CAE) is fast approaching, and it promises to be an essential platform for exchange on the challenges of financing development in Africa. Organized every two years by the African Union Commission, this event brings together eminent economists from the continent and the diaspora to discuss contemporary economic issues.
The sixth edition of the CAE, scheduled for December 6-8, 2023 in Lusaka, Zambia, will have the theme “Financing Africa’s development beyond crises”. A theme of great relevance at a time when the continent has been hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic, conflicts and climate change.
The debates will focus in particular on macroeconomic dynamics, the links between debt and illicit financial flows, the mobilization of the private sector and even debt management policies. The objective is to deepen the understanding of these issues and to propose concrete recommendations to guide Africa’s economic policies.
It is undeniable that the Covid-19 pandemic has exposed the continent’s vulnerabilities to external shocks and underlined the need for structural transformation. Low levels of economic diversification and value addition as well as the devastating effects of recurring crises hinder the achievement of inclusive growth and sustainable development in Africa.
The CAE therefore constitutes a unique opportunity to capitalize on research work based on a rigorous literature review and to improve analytical frameworks to guide political decisions. The results of this congress are often used in the development of economic policies and contribute to strengthening the role of the African Union Commission in regional debates.
Additionally, this event promotes exchanges between African governments, universities and other institutions, thereby strengthening the skills and economic capabilities of the African workforce.
In summary, the Congress of African Economists promises to be a major meeting to discuss the challenges of financing development in Africa. Issues linked to debt, illicit financial flows and the mobilization of the private sector will be at the heart of the debates. Let us hope that this event will make it possible to propose concrete solutions for sustainable and inclusive growth on the continent.